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Posts Tagged ‘EMF Radiation’

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Simple Solutions for EMF Radiation Protection

In Breast Cancer, Cancer, cancer stem cells and recurrence, Cell Phones, EMFs and Health Risks, Uncategorized on January 24, 2019 at 8:10 am

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible areas of energy, known by most of us as radiation, that have been found to cause great harm to the human body. I am not just talking about nuclear fallout, but importantly, cell phone use, WIFI technology, cordless phones, clock radios, hair dryers, X-rays, radiotherapy, air travel-associated radiation, and other exposures that pose day-to-day radiation toxicity. Sadly, we are all exposed to ionizing radiation and could be potentially at increased risk for adverse health effects.

Ionizing radiation causes damage by producing free radicals like reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS can randomly react with lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids of cells causing oxidative stress and damage which can lead to molecular and cellular damage. Oxidative stress is considered one of the major factors connected with increased cancer risk and is implicated in cardiovascular events, osteoporosis, male infertility, and more.

Exposure to high doses of ionizing radiation can result in increased rates of genetic mutations. DNA damage caused by oxidative stress may lead to mutations that inactivate tumor suppressor genes and activate oncogenes.[i]

In addition to free radical production, another source of indirect post-irradiation toxicity is inflammatory processes. Radiation-induced damage initiates long-term pro-inflammatory reactions in the surrounding tissue. Exposure to large amounts of ionizing radiation could result in a severe inflammation reaction causing irreparable damage to various tissue and organs, particularly in the heart, lungs and kidneys.

In an attempt to minimize these effects, a small number of compounds in plants have been identified for use as agents that offer some protection against radiation-induced toxicities, and many more are being investigated. These effects are possibly due to free radical scavenging, antioxidant, metal chelating, immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and enhancement of the DNA repair processes. Also likely is that certain substances are able to absorb strong energies such as EMFs and convert them into less reactive forms.

dragon-4The Role of Radioprotectants:

The need for protection against the toxic effects of ionizing radiation comes from many different directions: occupational exposure, nuclear accidents, environmental sources, the use of cell phones and other devices, and protection of normal tissue during the therapeutic irradiation of cancer. No matter the source, radioprotectants are important in protecting cells from deleterious radiation-induced side effects.

Radio-protectors are agents that protect the body’s cells and tissues from the undesirable effects of radiation by scavenging radiation-induced free radicals. In the past, synthetic radio-protectors were found to help mitigate or minimize the life-threatening effects of radiation, but they were not put clinical use due to undesirable side effects and inherent toxicity, such as hypotension, vomiting, nausea, sneezing, hot flashes, etc.[ii] Therefore, the exploration of radio-protectors with less toxicity became essential.

The first line of defense from the damaging effects of ROS is antioxidants, which convert strong oxidants to less reactive forms. Antioxidants can minimize the damaging effects of ROS by converting strong oxidants to less reactive forms. For example, the powerful antioxidant lycopene can protect and repair cellular damage from free-radicals, including those induced from ionizing radiation.[iii] This suggests that supplementation of lycopene might be useful in diminishing of negative effect of cancer radiotherapy or in mitigating the effects of possible radiation accidents and exposures on human health. Red fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes (especially when cooked), watermelons, red peppers, pink grapefruits, apricots, pink guavas, dragon fruit, and papaya contain lycopene.

Studies confirm that lycopene and other compounds in fruits, vegetables and associated dietary supplements reduce risk of cancer and inhibit the growth of tumors. Research also shows that nutraceuticals have protective effects against other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, male infertility. These results could be in part due to their protection against damage induced by ionizing radiation, offering yet another reason to consume them copiously.

N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC) helps to replenish intracellular glutathione, a vital cellular antioxidant.  Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) also helps boost glutathione levels (see below for more substances that boost glutathione). For brand recommendations, click on the highlighted supplement of interest.

Another substance, melanin, has shown to offer radioprotective properties and is being studied. It is already well known for protecting human skin from UV radiation. While found in foods such as seaweed, eggs, cheese, fish (rich sources of tyrosine, an amino acid that aids in the production of melanin), it is most abundantly found in mushrooms, particularly Chaga mushrooms. Compounds in melanin absorb electromagnetic radiation and help deactivate radioactive isotopes, converting them into benign forms.[iv]

To keep this post short and sweet, I have referenced some studies rather than get into depth on them all, but have included some highlights below. This list is not inclusive, but rather illustrative of how eating a significant amount of fruits and vegetables, and at times supplements, throughout the day can be radio-protective (Click on the highlights for a few brand recommendations for supplements–widely available in most stores).

 Fun Facts:

  • Lycopene reduces the negative effect of cancer radiotherapy and other sources of radiation exposure, especially in advance of exposure.
  • Compounds in Chaga mushroom absorb electromagnetic radiation and help deactivate radioactive isotopes, converting them into benign forms.[xvii]
  • Flaxseed, already known for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, works as both a mitigator and protector against radiation exposure, including regarding pneumopathy. It not only protects lung tissues before exposure to radiation, but can also significantly reduce damage after exposure occurs.[xviii]
  • The protection afforded by flaxseed may be attributed to the omega-3 essential fatty acids and phytoestrogenic lignans, which appear to play an important role in free radical scavenging.[xix]
  • Asparagus are high in glutathione and also selenium and zinc, which  also help you make glutathione are protective against EMFs.
  • Olive oil and cruciferous vegetables (in particular the sulfur/sulforophane in these veggies) boosts glutathione.
  • Blueberries contain delphinidin, which has strong antioxidant properties that scavenge radiation-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), making them protective against a wide scope of radiation exposures.
  • Radioprotectors such as delphinidin used during cancer radiotherapy could offer some protection to normal tissues around a cancerous tumor, which are unintentionally exposed to radiation during traditional and proton radiotherapy[xx]
  • Blueberry anthocyanins inhibit cell apoptosis and reduce the radiation injury by decreasing gene and protein expression of p53 and other proteins that regulate cancer cell division, growth, and death.[xxi]
  • Apple pectin aids in removing radionuclides, with one study showing a 62% reduction in radionuclides in treated children from the Chernobyl area and another with a 28-39% reduction after just 16 days, improving cardiovascular health in the children.[xxii]
  • Flavonoids in fruits and vegetables offer a variety of beneficial properties including protection from ionizing radiation, DNA protection, immune system protection, hemopoietic system protection, scavenging of free radicals, antioxidant properties, antitumor properties, antiviral properties, antibacterial properties, and anti-inflammatory properties.[xxiii]
  • Intravenous administration of melanin-coated nanospheres has demonstrated protection of bone marrow against radiotoxicity during radioimmunotherapy of cancer. [xxiv]
  • Buckwheat flavonoid offer radio-protective mechanisms on the hematopoietic (bone marrow, spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) and immune systems[xxv]
  • Plant compounds offer substantial protection and do not appear to interfere with therapeutic radiotherapy.
  • DIM may protect against ionizing radiation taken before or up to 24 hours after radiation and does not protect breast cancer tumors against radiotherapy.[xxvi]

Importantly, many compounds, such as the antioxidants lycopene and delphinidin need to be taken before exposure, which means it is best to consume these on a regular basis.  Enjoy in abundance tomatoes (especially cooked), blueberries, dragon fruit, mint (fresh or tea), apples,  flax seed, green tea, and others. Buckwheat is quite versatile and is naturally gluten-free –try this delicious flatbread recipe.

Regarding Radiation Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Radiation therapy is a highly utilized therapy in the treatment of malignancies with up to 60% of cancer patients receiving radiation therapy as a part of their treatment regimen. However, the radiation-induced damage to the normal tissues often restricts the therapeutic doses of radiation that can be delivered to tumors and thereby limits the effectiveness of the treatment[xxvii] Notably, researchers have found that there are numerous substances that are radio-protective and yet do not interfere with therapeutic radiotherapy.[xxviii] Unfortunately, not all radiation oncologists recommend such substances, so it is imperative that you seek help from a qualified professional.

Radiation therapy does, however, cause a wide range of adverse effects that can be severe and cause permanent damage to the patient.[xxix] Radiotherapy also does not target cancer stem cells and can actually make them more aggressive.

Radio-protective Devices

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If you don’t see yourself consuming radio-protective foods and supplements on a regular basis or feel that you are particularly exposed (aren’t we all?) you may want to take advantage of the plethora of devices that offer EMF protection.  There are also many lovely and inexpensive shungite pendants and bracelets available online that help balance energy, as well as other items that can be attached to your cell phone, hair dryer, clock, laptop, etc., and to your own jewelry. Please note that since my previous post, Aries Tech has discontinued their older generation Aires Black Crystal and Aires Defender and replaced them with more effective and powerful protection, all made in the EU.

Aires Shield Pro – Powerful enough for all devices from phones to large smart TVs. [Aries Shield Pro]

Aires Defender Pro – To be used on the person for full body protection. [Defender]

Aires Guardian – To be used in all areas of a typical home or office as an area protector. [Guardian]

Update: Two more reputable products that I have come across are SafeSleeve anti-radiation cases for your phone and Lambs radiation-proof and anti-EMF underwear to protect your privates and testosterone levels (as featured in Mens’s Health, Forbes, GQ, and more). You may laugh at that one, but it is important to protect your privates (and ladies, need I remind you to keep your phone out of your bra and pockets? Lambs for ladies coming soon).

In your good health,

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a holistic cancer strategist and speaker specializing in the prevention and treatment of cancer. She is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer and is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn has written for numerous journals and publications. She was the former Executive Director of the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation and the creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show. To contact Elyn, visit www.elynjacobs.com. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone, or in person.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a recommendation to forgo medical advice and treatment.  This post is not intended to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose any disease or condition. This post does not represent medical advice nor should it be considered to be medical advice or a replacement for medical advice.  I encourage you to discuss this information with your integrative oncologist, naturopathic doctor, or conventional oncologist. The information provided is from my research and not to be taken as scientific evidence.

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[i] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655585/#CR40

[ii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4419622/#R13

[iii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4297477/

[iv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256187; https://www.news-medical.net/news/20110824/Melanin-also-protects-from-ionizing-radiation.aspx

[v]  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25526570

[vi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256187; https://www.news-medical.net/news/20110824/Melanin-also-protects-from-ionizing-radiation.aspx; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5039571/

[vii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17486687

[viii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5792255/

[viii] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf

[ix] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21119249

[x] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579918/

[xi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3586922/

[xii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4419622/#R13

[xiii] http://naturalsociety.com/malanin-fungi-compound-radioprotective-68349/#ixzz5dA4ds2Md
[xiv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24127581

[xv] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25361477

[xvi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24820157

[xvii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256187; https://www.news-medical.net/news/20110824/Melanin-also-protects-from-ionizing-radiation.aspx

[xviii] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/08/110809111821.htm

[xix] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17486687; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23106213; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2745149/

[xx] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5792255/

[xxi] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf

[xxii] http://naturalsociety.com/malanin-fungi-compound-radioprotective-68349/#ixzz5dA4ds2Md
[xxiii] http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/tjpr.v15i5.28

[xxiv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20421152

[xxv] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf

[xxvi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24127581

[xxvii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21119249

[xxviii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5039571/

[xxix] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/08/110809111821.htm

[xxx] https://elynjacobs.com/2015/01/09/cancer-stem-cells-could-they-be-the-key-to-metastasis/

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How to Protect Yourself from EMF Radiation

In Cancer, Cell Phones, EMF's, Radiation on October 6, 2015 at 12:39 pm

Is Your Cell Phone Putting You at Risk of Brain Cancer?

I have the pleasure of being the go-to person in my family and amongst friends for health-related questions, especially when it comes to cancer. In the case of the connection between EMF’s (electromagnetic fields) and cancer, it did not take long to convince my family that electronic devices are indeed dangerous.

  • Exposure to radiofrequency energy from mobile phones held next to the ear is associated with an increased incidence of brain cancers such as malignant gliomas
  • A strong correlation has also been found in women who tend to carry their cell phones in their bras with a high incidence of breast cancer in the area closest to the phone—many have reported the area of concern to ‘copy’ the form of the phone
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that, “electromagnetic fields produced by mobile phones are possible carcinogenic to humans. A very recent study suggested that wireless transmitting devices (WTDs)–mobile phones, cordless phones, mobile phone-based stations, and Wi-Fi routers–be classified as a “probable human carcinogen”

My exposure to the dangers of EMF’s began when a vendor at the 2010 Annie Appleseed conference was hawking devices to put on phones to deflect radiation as well as necklaces that purportedly would protect us from radiation. Being a skeptic, I had my doubts. However, when very well-informed speakers were soon seen donning the wares, I began to think there was something to this.

A month later when I attended the Integrative Healthcare Symposium and heard the president of the Environmental Health Trust (a non-profit organization focusing on drawing attention to man-made health threats), Dr. Devra Davis, present on the dangers of cell phone radiation, there was no longer any doubt in my mind. And, to see some 2000 prominent doctors and nurses quietly distancing themselves from their devices (cell phones and laptops) was pretty amazing; her book Disconnect:The Truth About Cell Phone Radiation, sold out. While I am a long way from banning electronic devices (heck, I use them too), since then I have provided my family the means for safer use.

Recently the city of Berkeley in California recently passed an ordinance requiring cell phone retailers to warn customers that mobile devices may emit cancer-causing radiation. As you can imagine, the wireless industry’s trade association was not too pleased, yet they do have warnings in the VERY FINE print in their owner’s manuals that clearly state cell phones should be kept at a distance from the body and that laptops should not be placed on the lap.

What Can You Do to Reduce the Risk of Cell Phone Radiation?

First and foremost, distance is your friend. Using the speaker-phone option on your cellphone is good, but does not offer much privacy. Using an air-tube headset may be the better way to go. My family and I have been using them for years (note: regular wired head-sets does not protect-they actually conduct radiation!). There was some grumbling from the younger set, mostly as the older versions didn’t fit well in pockets and even with the newer ones, the ear plugs fall out easily (a big nuisance). Then I read about one made by Smart-Safe, a company dedicated to bring public attention to the issue of EMF safety. This company came about after the owner lost his uncle to brain cancer doctors said was in size and shape of a cellphone, which explains their passion. I asked them to send me a headset to try out, and they actually sent me two, one with Bluetooth. I have to say, I love them (and so does the younger set!). I like that the ear plugs stay in even during exercise, the sound is clear and I really appreciate that the cord does not tangle like my old headphones—a big plus.

So Here’s What You Need to Know About EchoTubeZ: Radiation-Free-Air-Tube-Headset-Stereo-Blue1-1024x706

  • The speakers are in the capsule and they transmit the sound through the hollow tubes, no metal wiring therefor they do not conduct the radiation from the cellphone
  • The Bluetooth headset has a RadBlocker card on the back, which makes sure that the signal from the Bluetooth device does not reach the body and bounces safely away from the chest— it buffers between the Bluetooth device and chest functioning like a mirror thus bouncing the electromagnetic field away from the chest. With the Bluetooth you do not have to carry the cellphone in your pocket or hold it in your hand, and you can answer calls from a distance
  • The silicon tubes are German medical grade silicone, tested for biocompatibility, which means that it is compatible with the body and will not react with body fluids and tissue; tubing has no metal wiring
  • The tubes provide a little more bass to the sound, which is kind of cool
  • If you pinch the tubes while listening to music it mutes the sound so you do not have to remove the plugs from your ear to block the sound, something they call Pintch2Mute™
  • The ear plugs stay firmly in the ears

Smart-Safe also has other cool products such as the RadBlocker™ pouch, which allows one to safely carry their phone on their belt—80% of the body’s bone marrow is found in the hip, so please use caution when carrying your phone there. They also have radiation-blocking cases for phones, belly shields (to protect your baby), laptop shields (which means you can safely use laptop, tablets, computers, and other electronic devices in your lap) and other nifty products.

EMF Dangers Lurk Elsewhere as Well

EMF exposure from cordless phones, ‘smart meters’, WI-FI, wireless laptops, wireless routers, baby monitors and similar electronic devices–power lines, electrical wiring and other appliances all add to the toxic mix. There’s virtually no escaping EMF exposure, but you can reduce your risk:

  • Hardwire your laptop whenever possible
  • Use a land-line, corded phone
  • Take your laptop off your lap or use a radiation shield or blanket (see above for Smart-Safe Anti-Radiation Laptop Tray and Anti-Radiation Maternity Belly Band)
  • Crystals, such as black tourmaline and citrine, in the form of free-formed pieces as well as necklaces, bracelets and other jewelry, can help protect you from unavoidable exposure. I love the bracelets from Heelerz Gemstones
  • Place a cactus next to your computer as they can absorb some of the radiation
  • Practice ‘Earthing’–direct barefoot contact with the surface of the Earth which decreases inflammation and protects the body from EMF radiation. Another option is to use an Earthing Universal Mat with Cover Kit

While there is no rock-solid proof that EMF’s are a serious threat to human existence, there is clearly enough evidence to warrant the use of caution. Many experts liken the uneasy parallel to the tobacco issue and voice suspicions about those in power downplaying concern for consumers for the sake of financial gain. I think this is only the tip of the iceberg—we should expect to hear much more and see more municipalities taking action on the health risks of modern technology. In the meantime, please practice safe-cell.

References and Resources:

Lloyd Burrell: EMF’s and Your Health

Environmental Health Trust

Mobile phone radiation causes brain tumors and should be classified as a probable human carcinogen. International Journal of Oncology, 46(5): 1865-1871. Morgan LL, Miller AB, Sasco A, Davis DL (2015)

Epidemiology of Gliomas. Cancer Treatment Reviews, 163: 1-14. Ostrom QT, Gittleman H, Stetson L, et al. (2015)

Can Cell Phones Cause Cancer and Infertility? Are Your Children at Risk?

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~
Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor, professional cancer strategist, speaker, and the Executive Director for the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Elyn empowers women to choose the path for treatment that best fits their own individual needs. She is passionate about helping others move forward into a life of health and well-being. Elyn has been featured on CNN Money, Talk About Health, and Breast Cancer Answers, is a contributor to The Truth About Cancer, and has written for the Pink Paper, Breast Cancer Wellness, Integrative Oncology Essentials, Surviving Beautifully, Body Local and more; she authored the Options for Life column for the Natural Healing-Natural Wellness Magazine. Elyn hosts the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn lives in New York with her husband and two young boys. https://elynjacobs.com/about/

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